Clarke can go a long way

OLDHAM RL boss Tony Benson believes young forward Chris Clarke will make a name for himself in rugby league.

Lauding him as a player of "huge potential", Benson said the 21-year-old former Oldham St Anne's man had the skill, desire and mental toughness to go far.

"In playing terms he is mature beyond his years," said the Roughyeds coach. "He's always positive – a great kid to have around.”

Clarke has followed up his eye-catching first season in senior rugby by signing a new one-year deal for his hometown club.

And Benson said: "Chris is an Oldham lad through and through. He loves playing for his town. That's what drives him.”